BJP defends army's operation on terrorist hideouts in Myanmar

SHIMLA: Amid attacks by the Congress, the BJP today said that the operation conducted by Indian army on the terrorist hideouts in Myanmar were "necessary to boost the morale of the forces."

"These strikes were necessary for sending the right signal across that India would not take such nefarious activities along the borders lying down and respond adequately to all provocations," BJP general secretary, Shrikant Sharma, said.

"The strikes have made Pakistan and some political parties in the country uncomfortable but these were necessary to boost the morale of the forces and also instill confidence among people," Sharma, who is also in-charge of organisational affairs for Himachal, said.

Senior Congress leader Anand Sharma yesterday criticised the NDA government and called its ministers "immature" for taking credit in the operation conducted by Indian army in Myanmar.

The BJP leader also expressed his dismay over the state government's inaction in bringing the culprits in the attack on BJP office at Shimla on January 29

The only reason for letting the culprits go scot free was that there is Congress government in the state, he said.

"One of our worker lost an eye and some others were injured. We would take necessary action when BJP returns to the power," he said.

"The culprits are known but ruling party is trying to save its workers involved in unprovoked attack," he said.

Lauding the foreign policy of Modi government, Shrikant Sharma said that invitation to SAARC nations to attend oath ceremony of Prime minister Narendra Modi was an attempt send a message that India wants peace and development of the region and harmonious relations with its neighbours.

Referring to the issue of 'One rank, One pension', he said that the government is committed to the issue but it will some time to resolve.